The ability to surf the internet from your car could soon become a standard feature as global car makers are broadly behind the technology, a new report has revealed.

A survey by consultancy firm KPMG revealed that 63% of automotive executives expect to see a convergence of the car and telecommunications industries in the future.

The executives feel that trends are likely to include internet connection via Wi-Fi and 3G, along with speech recognition for web browsing and searching.

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More than a third (37%) of the 200 car executives surveyed stated that "infotainment" and in-built technology will be almost as important as car safety in driving consumer purchasing decisions.

Last year, Toyota and Intel agreed a partnership to develop an "infotainment" system, and the survey revealed that a third of car makers intend to develop similar collaborations.

"Global car executives believe that as consumers become accustomed to instant access at home and in the office, customers will expect the same services when on the move in their vehicles," said John Leech, head of automotive at KPMG.

"In the future, connectivity will not simply be a 'nice to have' feature but an intrinsic part of a vehicle. Right now the market is open for the taking - global manufacturers and suppliers are beginning to realise the potential of this market."

Following the Intel-Toyota partnership, various other major technology firms such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft are expected to branch out further into in-car gadgets.

Audi has already developed an A7 model with built-in 3G wireless and intends to extend the technology to other new models.

Speaking to the BBC's Newsbeat, Leech said that the "connected car concept is well and truly here".

"The recent collaboration between Toyota and Intel was announced at the end of last year," he said.

"Intel claims that the connected car is the third-fastest growing technological device, following smartphones and tablets. For a car maker that offers huge potential."